Abstract: An improved aortic cannula is provided for use in heart bypass surgery. The cannula includes an elongated tube with a terminal end. The terminal end has a ramped surface leading to the discharge opening, with a lip extending approximately 70.degree.-90.degree. to the longitudinal axis of the cannula at the bottom of the discharge opening. The curved surface and lip cause the blood to exit the cannula opening in a direction approximately 70.degree.-90.degree. from the longitudinal axis of the cannula, and in a direction toward the ascending aorta. With the improved cannula of the present invention, no blood is directed towards the aortic arch, thereby minimizing the risk of stroke from dislodged plaque commonly found in the aortic arch. The curved surface of the terminal end also reduces the blood flow turbulence, thereby decreasing pressure requirements. The width of the opening allows blood to be discharged in a broadcast band with a radius of approximately 90.degree..